From palaces to landmarks

Two continents. Two royal families. One historic company. When a Japanese Crown Prince and a Spanish King needed the best environmental systems for their respective palaces in the early 20th century, they turned to Johnson Controls. After more than 100 years, we’re still the premier choice for iconic buildings around the world.

The year is 1906. Crown Prince Yoshihito of Japan – who would go on to be named Emperor – ordered an extensive remodeling of his living quarters in the lavish European rococo-style.  Every detail reflected the highest standards of the time, including climate control. For that, he chose Johnson Controls.

Just months later, King Alphonso XIII of Spain sent an envoy to several countries to find the best heat regulation system possible for a new palace for him and his bride. After exploring options across Europe and America, his team turned to Johnson Controls for a system that met their expectations for performance and quality.

Over a century later, our commitment to excellence continues – delivering building solutions that stand the test of time.

Icons recognize icons

For more than 140 years, we have defined international landmarks and shaped some of the world’s most recognized buildings with future-focused innovations that make them more sustainable, energy-efficient and connected. 

Our expertise spans thousands of projects globally. Among them was our significant role in construction of the Shanghai Tower¹ – China’s tallest building – which was completed in 2015. The LEED Gold building features 43 sustainable technologies overall, including more than 10 YORK® chillers and heat pumps, a Metasys® building management system (BMS) and a customized central performance management system (CPMS) in the building's central heating and cooling plant.

"We were looking for operational synergy between our HVAC and building controls systems – an objective which Johnson Controls has deep experience and expertise in,” said a representative from Shanghai Tower. “Johnson Controls was able to customize the solution for us to meet our unique requirements, including a significantly smaller operating footprint. Throughout the process, the company provided excellent and prompt service. We look forward to the high performance of the solutions from Johnson Controls and achieving our energy efficiency targets."²

Looking ahead: innovation for today’s icons

Just as Johnson Controls set the standard for royal residences over a century ago, we continue to redefine what’s possible for worldwide customers through AI-driven efficiency, digital platforms, data-driven insights and innovative building solutions. We enable high-performance environments for every type of building – from cultural institutions to commercial towers.

From Asia’s tallest towers to Olympic arenas, our expertise shapes icons worldwide—including Taipei 101,³ Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur ³ and Beijing National Stadium ⁴, among many others. This is just one part of a global story, with a heritage proven through partnerships that protected Edison’s lab and helped land astronauts on the Moon. Learn more about our iconic partnerships that powered progress and innovation.

Sources:

1. Press release: Johnson Controls innovative building solutions forms the heart of China's tallest building. April 19, 2017.
2. Shanghai Tower - Here are the innovative building solutions that form the heart of China's tallest building. Construction World. April 20, 2017.
3. Johnson Controls showcases a new landmark of green and intelligent building. China International Import Expo website. November 2, 2018.
4. Johnson Controls competes for top place at the Olympics. Heating and Ventilating Review. August 14, 2008.